With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can work for 15 years or longer. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be updated down the road.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Alliance, we realize that cost is at the top of your list of questions. The silver lining is that getting a new air conditioner may be more economical than you are aware, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get better energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over the years through cheaper electricity bills.

Here’s what to expect when you’re getting a new air conditioner.

When You Should Schedule Air Conditioner Replacement

Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner can be difficult. Here’s what our pros recommend.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some could work longer, most air conditioners work for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We suggest prepping for air conditioning replacement close to the 10-year point. Even if you install a new one when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this tweak could save you 20-40% on cooling expenses.
  • You’ve neglected routine maintenance for a long time. Similar to a car, your cooling system requires routine air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this essential service can lead to lower efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the result of not doing maintenance But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to suffer a catastrophic breakdown. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
  • Your house isn’t comfortable. If your residence feels too humid or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in given spaces, your air conditioner could be having a hard time keeping up. This is a hint you should replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are high. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it becomes older. As a consequence, it may need to run more often or longer to keep your house at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your residence comfy and electrical bills reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a good chance it has Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made as a result of its bad effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be extraordinarily expensive. This is because R-22 is only available in limited, recycled amounts.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s wisest to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t needed all the time or inexpensive. The smartest way to avoid emergency repairs is to have annual service scheduled. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is covered by a warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we suggest fixing it.

General Estimate of Air Conditioner Cost

The majority of homeowners spend around $4,631 on a new air conditioner, based on national averages compiled by HomeGuide. Air conditioner cost averages often range from $3,350 to $5,912, but your exact cost {might|could|may] be different.

There are a few details that impact your total cost, including:

  • The air conditioner model you choose, as more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
  • The size your home needs.
  • If you need to put in new ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is dated or damaged.

We offer free estimates at Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces so you can know you’re getting a good deal. And with our full range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that accommodates just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Sizing

Air conditioner size is crucial. A system that’s undersized will have difficulty keeping your residence cool. And one that’s too big might turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This act can drive up your energy expenses and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This may also lead to temperature inconsistencies and make your residence feel less comfortable.

At Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces, our professionals have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The right size depends on how big your home is, along with several other considerations. Some of the most typical sizes include:

  • 2 ton, which cools up to 1,000 square feet
  • 3 ton, which cools up to 1,600 square feet
  • 4 ton, which cools up to 1,900 square feet
  • 5 ton, which cools more than 2,000 square feet

Other things that can influence air conditioner size are:

  • The temperatures in Alliance.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your home has and the style, as expansive or picture windows might be less efficient.
  • If your residence has more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • How many people are in your family.

SEER Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is impacted by its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This ranking measures how efficiently it consumes electricity to create cooling. The greater the number, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

When you’re installing a new air conditioner, it’s important to know:

  • Old air conditioners are rated around 8-9 SEER.
  • Modern air conditioners start at 13 SEER. Ones installed in the southwest and southeast must be a minimum of 14 SEER due to U.S. Department of Energy mandates. As of 2017, these SEER rating requirements have saved homeowners trillions of dollars.
  • ENERGY STAR®-certified air conditioners begin at 14.5 SEER.
  • Higher SEER-rated air conditioners have extra features to help you save more. These features may involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of running at full speed constantly, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds based on your cooling preferences. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is usually pricier, it could be eligible for extra rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime may help it pay for itself.

Kickstart Your Air Conditioning Installation with Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces Today

When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as critical as the model you select. Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Alliance. From helping you choose the right solution for your residence to discussing financing options to professional installation, partnering with us is a breeze. Call us at 308-762-1613 to begin now!